Freedom High Graduates 390 Both Class Speakers Strive To Define 'Measure Of Success'

June 13, 1986|The Morning Call

The measure of success was discussed by class speakers Davin Newcomer and Rebecca Mitchell last night as 390 seniors became graduates of Freedom High School in Lehigh University's Stabler Arena.

Looking back on past successes, Newcomer said the event is whatmembers of the class "have been striving toward for roughly two-thirds of our lives - graduation." He asked, "What is success?" and answered by saying, "Success can be defined as attainment of wealth or fame in an occupation or deed.

"To me, success is best described by personal triumphs, accomplishments and by setting examples. We are the first class to complete four years of schooling at Freedom High School." Ninth grade was added to the Bethlehem high schools four years ago when the district went to a middle-school system.

He addressed the parents of the graduates by telling them, "Through your leadership and guidance, we have successfully completed 12 years of schooling. With the examples you have set for us, we will progress beyond high school with the hope of fulfilling your dreams of our future accomplishments."

Looking to the future, Mitchell observed, "It is hard for us to know what success really is, though; we are bombarded by different views from all sides."

"Most of our society presents us with one view of success, a view that I consider distorted and unhealthy. (It is that) a truly successful person is wealthy: monetary gain is the yardstick for measuring accomplishment. There are better goals we should aim for."

But she said her way of looking at success "is a somewhat unusual one."

"I really believe, though, that, if we can love ourselves, care for others and do our work thoughtfully, we all have pretty good chances of being satisfied, joyful people as we move into the 'real' world," she said.

Musical selections were presented by the orchestra, directed by Ronald H. Demkee, and the school choirs, directed by Janet L. Mack.

Scholastic achievements were recognized by Principal Richard C. Jay and Assistant Principal William J. Burkhardt. Jay told the group,"There can be no doubt that this has been a class of academic achievement - a noteworthy legacy to leave future classes to emulate."

He bid the students farewell by telling them, "It is my sincere hope that the Freedom High School motto of 'Excellence in All Things' will be your pathfinder for life."

Acting Superintendent Thomas J. Doluisio presented the class, and John F. Spirk, president of the Bethlehem Area School Board, awarded diplomas.

The class' response was delivered by its president, Dimitri E. Diamandopoulos Jr., who told his fellow graduates to "live life with desire and optimism" and when seeking a goal to "reach out and get it, because the opportunity may occur only once in your lifetime."